MARPOL

MARPOL, short for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, is an international treaty administered by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Adopted in 1973 and amended by a 1978 protocol, it aims to prevent pollution of the marine environment from ships due to both operational activities and accidental incidents.

The convention applies to ships engaged in international voyages and, in many cases, to ships within national waters. It comprises six technical annexes, each addressing a different pollutant category: Annex I covers oil pollution; Annex II covers noxious liquid substances in bulk; Annex III covers harmful substances in packaged form; Annex IV covers sewage; Annex V covers garbage; Annex VI covers air pollution and related emission controls, including measures to improve energy efficiency.

Key requirements under MARPOL include discharge prohibitions or restrictions, construction and equipment standards, and operational procedures designed to minimize pollution. Ships must carry appropriate certificates and maintain records, such as the Oil Record Book and Garbage Record Book, as well as implement a Shipboard Pollution Emergency Plan. Port State Control authorities may inspect ships for compliance and, if needed, deny entry or impose penalties. Waste and residues generated on board must be delivered to port reception facilities in a compliant manner.

Overview and impact: MARPOL is a foundational framework in global marine environmental protection, shaping national regulations and ship design worldwide. It is continually updated through amendments to its annexes, reflecting advances in technology and evolving environmental priorities, with the IMO coordinating implementation and enforcement through member states.